Staunton's tenure as national coach was cut short after an emergency Football Association of Ireland meeting late last night. The 37-year-old was less than half way through his contract after just 14 matches in charge.

Under-21 coach Don Givens has taken over temporarily and will be in charge for the Republic's final Euro 2008 qualifier against Wales in Cardiff next month, while the FAI seek a long-term replacement for Staunton.

O'Leary would be a popular choice and is the bookmakers favourite to take over the helm and restore some pride to the national team who dropped to as low as 51 in Fifa's world rankings during Staunton's 21-month reign.

The Irishman has been out of management since departing Aston Villa by mutual consent last July and would relish a return.

O'Leary could be the high-profile figure the fans are demanding following the FAI's poor appointments in Brian Kerr and Staunton since Mick McCarthy's resignation in 2002.

He would also demand the respect of the dressing room having worked with a number of big-name players during his club management days at Villa Park and at Leeds United.

Arsenal academy director Brady has already indicated he would succeed Staunton and be the man to take the side forward. Brady has been interviewed for the position before over 10 years ago, but McCarthy beat the former Celtic manager to the post.

"If I was offered it, I would consider taking the job," Brady said.

Terry Venables and Paul Jewell have also been linked with the position, but the FAI may rule the English duo out and look closer to home for Staunton's replacement.

John Aldridge and Kevin Moran would be obvious candidates but the governing body have said they will appoint an outside advisor from within the "football industry" to help them in their search.

"The board will select people, with considerable football experience in the professional game, to appoint the new manager," a spokesman from the FAI said.